Sometimes you need to let go of the steering wheel and see where the road takes you…

About Me

Welcome to Lost and Abound!

I’m Lisa, a 27 year old Australian who, two years ago, decided to make a very big change in my life.

My family was always on the move, shifting from house to house. You would think this would prepare me for change, but instead I hated it! I never coped well! And it was simply because I was a girl in love with routines and structure. I liked to be settled. I would even set daily goals and expectations and push myself to be the best version of me. I thought this was what I needed to do to be successful. To be happy. But as time went on I noticed that anxieties started to build. I would get nervous if I strayed from routine. I started turning down social outings. Closing doors. I barely slept and I was constantly stressed. And ultimately, I was unhappy. It took me a long time to realise how unhappy I actually was. And even longer to decide that something needed to be done about it.

One day in Melbourne someone asked me: “What is it that makes you happy Lisa?”

I suddenly became flustered. How could I not answer such a simple question?! It shouldn’t be that hard! But I honestly couldn’t find an answer. I didn’t know what I wanted. I had lost who I was. Until I decided to make a very big change in my life.

Now for a girl who is obsessed with routine, hated change and would feel anxious out of the comforts of her home, moving overseas was not an easy step. But now that I’m on the other side I can assure you it was the best decision of my life.

I know it sounds cliche’ – but by travelling I’ve really started to find who I am. And all I had to do was let go! Travelling has made me resilient. It’s taught me to roll with the punches. And I’ve learnt so much about myself. I’m stronger than I ever knew. And I’ve finally started to learn what truly makes me happy.

My cousin recently said to me, “Lisa, what happened to you? You used to have everything! Now you’re single, unemployed and homeless.”

I remember smiling back at him, completely carefree and stating,

“Yep! And I’ve never been happier!”

And it was true. Because it’s been at these times, the times when I’ve had the least, that I’ve felt the most freedom. The most excitement. And the most happiness.

Lost and Abound is a site that not only shares the stories of my travels, but also provides insight into the highs, the lows and everything in between on shifting life abroad. So if you’re someone considering taking the leap then I encourage you to have a read! Follow me. Ask me questions! Or perhaps you’re purely wanting inspiration on your upcoming holidays. Whatever the reason – I welcome you to become lost with me. And hopefully you may even find yourself to be inspired…to become abound in culture, memories and happiness!